Service Manager

Role Overview

This permanent full-time position based in Taupō, Bay of Plenty offers a chance to contribute significantly to the education sector by enhancing student achievements, promoting equity, and reducing disparities among young learners in New Zealand. The Service Manager will lead a dedicated professional team delivering specialized learning support and collaborate closely with families, communities, early childhood providers, schools, and Māori-medium settings to improve inclusive practices and educational results.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and coordinate a committed team providing a variety of specialist education support services.
• Work collaboratively with whānau, communities, and educational institutions to promote inclusive practices and community-driven educational aspirations.
• Facilitate timely service delivery that responds effectively to local educational needs.
• Advocate and provide leadership to influence and motivate stakeholders through vision and personal commitment.

Candidate Profile and Requirements

• Proven leadership experience managing complex teams, addressing workloads, and resource allocation.
• Strong communication abilities with diverse internal and external stakeholders.
• Capacity to build and sustain relationships across the Ministry, education providers, iwi, whānau, and communities to achieve regional education goals.
• Culturally responsive engagement and respect towards Māori, iwi, hapū, whānau, and ākonga.
• Experience in fostering innovation, driving change, and nurturing a culture focused on continuous improvement and collaboration.
• Competency in developing and implementing workplans aligned with organizational strategies.
• Skillful in coordinating with Ministry and other agencies to deliver cohesive programs tailored to specific community requirements.
• Ability to manage and conclude complex or delicate tasks successfully.
• Proficiency in interpreting data to guide decision-making and assess outcomes.
• Understanding and application of Te Tiriti o Waitangi and tangata whenuatanga principles, including promotion of tikanga and te reo Māori.
• Tertiary qualification in a relevant discipline required; postgraduate degree preferred or equivalent practical experience.
• Possession of a current full driver’s license, with travel expected as part of the role.
• Commitment to uphold the Public Service Standards of Integrity and Conduct.

About the Team

Te Mahau | Education Services provides leadership and integrated services across the education sector. Learning Support within Te Mahau is pivotal in ensuring students with additional needs receive appropriate educational support to maximize their potential. The team works closely with families, schools, and early educators in both English and Māori medium environments.

Additional Information

• Salary range: NZD 120,193 to 140,482 annually plus KiwiSaver contributions. Final salary will be determined based on experience and qualifications.
• Applicants residing in or willing to commute from South Waikato, Rotorua, or broader Bay of Plenty areas are encouraged to apply.
• Applications close at midnight on Sunday, 2 August 2026.
• Contact Person: Pennie Muldoon (phone: 07 349 7464, email: [email protected]).
• The organisation values diversity and inclusion and will accommodate needs for adjustments during recruitment.